Portugal is one of the world’s most globalized and peaceful nations in the World with great weather all year round. A core member of the European Union, Portugal has maintained a low key stance in comparison with its hyped neighbours like Spain, France and Italy. Unknown to most, it is the oldest country in Europe having maintained its same borders since 868. Portugal also once owned half of the “New World” making it the largest and longest standing global Empire in the World.
The great majority of the population speaks English. It is more affordable! Its beaches are pristine and not overrun with tourists. It is safe. Portugal ranked 4th in the 2018 Global Peace Index as one of the most peaceful nations in the world (Italy ranks 38, France 61 and Spain 30). Portugal is a country that roots itself in common respect for one another and the population is known for its warmth and hospitality.
WHY HAS PORTUGAL CREATED THE “GOLDEN VISA”?
The Portuguese Golden Visa is an investment-based visa which allows the country to obtain foreign capital to assist in boosting the economy and build up less established urban areas. The program has a number of flexibilities which makes the process a lot smoother for the investor.
There are a few options. One of them requires investors to make an investment of 1 Million Euro into the country. This investment allows the investor to buy a number of properties. In another option to the program someone can make an investment of €280,000 – €500,000 to purchase Portuguese property. The thresholds vary depending on location and age of real estate. Ultimately new real estate developments in prime locations like Lisbon will fall under the €500,000 investment minimum to be able to apply.
PORTUGUESE RESIDENCY PROVIDES EXTENSIVE BENEFITS TO GLOBAL FAMILIES
- Permanent entry and visa-free travel throughout the 26 countries of the EU Schengen Area
- The ability after five years to apply for Portuguese Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- Residency for dependent children / parents which provides access to European schools & public services on a single property purchase
- Seven day residency requirement in the first year and 14 days in the subsequent years
- Access to exclusive European investment opportunities beyond real estate
- Potentially no taxes on global income because of Double Taxation treaty
- The ability to choose to be a non-habitual resident of Portugal and gain tax exemption for certain sources of income for 10 years
- The ability to rent your property for income when not in country
